History (in the year 301 A.D.):
In the Republic of San Marino the cult of the Saint, the legendary founder of the Republic, is widespread and sincere. Indeed, it is this legend that has handed down to us the figure of Marino, the stonemason, arriving from the island of Arbe in Dalmatia, rising Mt. Titano to found a small community of Christians, persecuted for their faith by the Emperor Diocletian.

The area is known to have been inhabited since prehistoric times but only in the Middle Ages do we have news of the existence of a Monastery, a Parish and a Castle, together confirming the existence of an organized community at the peak of Mt. Titan. In the search of a vision and great emotions.


Geography:
In whatever part of the territory you go (61 km2), in particular at the peak of its mountain (750 meters high), your gaze is lost over a unique, dazzling panorama: the fertile soils of Emilia Romagna and the soft rolling hills of the Marche and Montefeltro, and on to dip into the placid Adriatic sea.

The Sammarinese territory is made up of nine ancient Citadels, including the capital, San Marino. These small centres arose as a result of the first human settlements; each offers something to be discovered and visited.

The Fortresses are interconnected by a convenient urban network of rare beauty; places for pleasurable stops in the enchanting greenery of the Apennine foothills and Montefeltro. The origins of San Marino are founded on the charming legend of the Saint, Founder of the community and of the Republic; when, in 301 A.D., Marino took refuge on Mt. Titano. The small capital holds a wealth of history, museums, and priceless architectural monuments. The annual destination of millions of tourists, it is a place of continuous discovery; a wealth of assorted crafts and souvenirs provide a vast, pleasant shopping experience.

The Serravalle citadel was first mentioned by King Otto's diploma, in 962. An outpost of the Malatesta family, it was annexed to the Republic in 1463. In time it became an important urban centre. It has a quaint historic centre with an ancient Castle and some characteristic quarters. The adjacent Sports Centre is modern and well equipped. Restaurants, trattorias and hotels make your stop in this town and the immediate vicinity quite pleasant.

Borgo Maggiore Market, that dates back to 1244, is of particular historic interest because of its churches, monuments and characteristic districts.

There are many opportunities to visit renown trattorias, inns, shops selling typical local products and the market (every Thursday morning). The tourist can even make a pleasant stop in the historic centre of the Capital, facilitated by a large parking area and rapid connection with the picturesque cableway.

Faetano, the ancient domain of the Malatesta family of Rimini, was one of the last strongholds annexed to the Republic in 1463. The centre of the town is quite interesting with its ancient church built in the last century and the Casa del Castello. A scenic locality, with a lake for sports fishing and numerous opportunities for excursions in the nature park on the Marano River.


Shopping:
The Republic can satisfy the most widely diverse desires for shopping and entertainment.
The historic centre offers limitless opportunities for all sorts of purchases. Every corner conceals a pleasant surprise. Your every desire can be satisfied in an absolutely unique setting where an agreeable afternoon can be spent among the coloured shop windows.

For those who prefer the modern comfort of a mall, a stop in Serravalle is a must. Just off the motorway you will find important centres that can meet your every need.